Broccoli Keema and Cheese Uttapam Recipe
Broccoli Keema and Cheese Uttapam is a delightful twist on the traditional South Indian Uttapam, bringing together the health benefits of broccoli and the creamy richness of mozzarella cheese. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for breakfast, a quick dinner, or even a lunch box treat. With a combination of fresh vegetables and idli dosa batter, this dish is not only nutritious but also full of flavors that will please the entire family. It’s a vegetarian dish that’s both filling and satisfying, making it a great option for those looking for a hearty, wholesome meal.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Broccoli | 1, cleaned and chopped |
| Onion | 1, finely chopped |
| Garlic | 1 clove, minced |
| Green Chili | 1, finely chopped |
| Coriander Powder | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Red Chili Powder | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Sunflower Oil | 1 teaspoon (for sautéing) |
| Salt | To taste |
| Idli Dosa Batter | 2 cups |
| Mozzarella Cheese | 1/4 cup, finely grated |
| Sunflower Oil | As needed (for frying) |
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4
Cuisine: South Indian
Course: South Indian Breakfast
Diet: Vegetarian
Instructions
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Prepare the Broccoli Filling:
- Begin by washing and cleaning the broccoli. Cut the florets into small pieces. Using a food processor, pulse the broccoli florets a couple of times until they resemble a grated texture. Set aside.
-
-
Sauté the Vegetables:
- Heat 1 teaspoon of sunflower oil in a small pan over medium heat. Once hot, add the finely chopped onions, minced garlic, and green chili. Sauté these until the onions turn golden brown and fragrant, which should take about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the grated broccoli to the pan, along with a pinch of salt. Stir well and cook for about 5-6 minutes or until the raw smell of the broccoli disappears.
- Sprinkle in the coriander powder and red chili powder. Sauté the mixture for another 2-3 minutes until the spices are well incorporated and the broccoli is tender. Once done, remove from heat and set aside.
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Prepare the Uttapam:
- Heat a dosa griddle or a large non-stick skillet over medium heat. Once hot, pour a small ladle of the prepared idli dosa batter onto the griddle. Use the back of the ladle to gently swirl and spread the batter into a thick pancake-like shape. You don’t want it too thin, as it needs to hold the broccoli mixture and cheese.
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Top the Uttapam:
- Spoon a generous amount of the broccoli kheema mixture onto the center of the batter. Spread it evenly over the surface of the Uttapam, pressing gently to ensure it sticks.
- Sprinkle the finely grated mozzarella cheese on top of the broccoli mixture. The cheese will melt and bind everything together as it cooks.
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Cook the Uttapam:
- Drizzle a little sunflower oil around the edges of the Uttapam to help it crisp up. Cover the griddle with a lid and let it cook for about 5-7 minutes or until the bottom turns golden brown and crispy, and the cheese is fully melted.
- If necessary, flip the Uttapam gently to cook the other side for an additional 1-2 minutes until it’s evenly golden and crispy.
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Serving:
- Once cooked, remove the Uttapam from the griddle and serve hot. You can enjoy it as is or serve it with traditional accompaniments like Idli Dosa Milagai Podi (spicy chutney powder) or coconut chutney for a complete South Indian breakfast experience.
Tips for Making Perfect Broccoli Keema and Cheese Uttapam:
- Broccoli Preparation: Make sure to pulse the broccoli in the food processor just enough to create a grated texture. If you pulse too much, it might turn mushy, and the texture won’t be ideal for the uttapam.
- Dosa Batter Consistency: The batter should be thick but pourable. If it’s too runny, the uttapam won’t hold its shape, and if it’s too thick, it will be hard to spread. Adjust the consistency with a little water, if needed.
- Cheese Options: While mozzarella is used in this recipe for its meltiness and mild flavor, you can also try using cheddar or a mix of cheese for a sharper flavor.
- Make-Ahead Tip: You can prepare the broccoli mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to a day. This will save you time during breakfast preparation or dinner rush.
Why You’ll Love Broccoli Keema and Cheese Uttapam:
- Nutrient-Rich: Packed with vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants from broccoli, this dish is a healthy, filling option for any meal.
- Easy to Customize: While this recipe features broccoli, feel free to experiment with other vegetables such as spinach, carrots, or peas for different flavors and textures.
- Kid-Friendly: The combination of cheese and soft dosa batter makes this an appealing dish for kids, especially those who might be picky about eating vegetables.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: These uttapams can easily be made in bulk and stored in the refrigerator for a quick breakfast or snack throughout the week.
Enjoy your Broccoli Keema and Cheese Uttapam with your favorite chutneys, and savor the perfect balance of crispy, cheesy, and healthy flavors in every bite. This South Indian dish is bound to become a family favorite!
